Gary Neil Blanchard

Gary Neil Blanchard, 87, passed away on March 15, 2026.

Gary was born July 5, 1938, in Rexburg, Idaho, to Wallace Blanchard and Gladys Cottrell. He was the youngest of four surviving children. His siblings were Jack Blanchard, Joy Hulet, and Nancy Grisamer.

He graduated from Teton High School and went on to begin his life’s work.

As a young adult in the late 1950s, he worked road construction in building Idaho’s interstate and highways. This work helped finance his education at Idaho State University, where he earned a degree in architecture and met his forever sweetheart, Anna Lou Johnson. They were married in the Logan Utah Temple on June 30, 1961.

They lived for a short time in Idaho Falls, where Gary worked for an architectural firm, before settling in Pocatello, Idaho. He joined Greene Plumbing and Heating as a partner and eventually became the sole owner. After becoming the sole owner, he also became a general contractor, redefining bidding and overseeing commercial heating and plumbing projects throughout southeastern Idaho. In 1997, Gary became a founding member of Citizen’s Community Bank and served on its board. He remained active in business for many years, only slowing down following his cancer diagnosis in 2021.

Gary owned and managed many apartments and often joked that since he didn’t have cows, he had apartments so his children could learn to work. Gary and Lou had four children: Barbara Blanchard Housley (1962), Marvin Blanchard (1965), Judy Blanchard Mortensen (1967), and Sandra Blanchard Houghton (1972). Much of their family time was spent at his father Wallace Blanchard’s homestead in Teton Valley and visiting Lou’s family at Stock Valley Ranch, her father’s homestead outside of Preston. Gary and Lou loved going for drives together, whether as a couple or with their family. Skiing, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and hiking were favorite pastimes.

From a young age, Gary showed an interest in aviation and later earned his private pilot license. He loved early mornings spent flying and was generous in sharing that love with anyone who showed interest, especially his grandchildren. He also had a gift for building and understanding how things worked. From an early age, he developed a deep mechanical understanding and a lifelong love of learning. He built two homes in Pocatello and took great satisfaction in creating and improving the world around him.

Gary was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many capacities, including leadership in youth organizations, the Boy Scouts of America, and as a Primary teacher. He was generous to his children, grandchildren, and many others, often offering quiet and anonymous help to those in need.

He had 16 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Anna Lou Blanchard and his four children. He was a steady support to his family and community and will be deeply missed.